Ipswich Visitor Center

Hours: 9am to 5pm
May: Open Saturday & Sunday
Memorial Day through October: Open 7 days a week
November – April: Closed

Ipswich was founded in 1633 on land that the native Indians called “Agawam.” The small settlement benefited from proximity to the ocean, abundant fresh water, excellent fishing, and fertile soil. Lace and stocking making became important industries, and the industrial revolution brought immigrants here to work. In 1689 Ipswich residents revolted against arbitrary rule by the British Crown, for which the town is referred to as the “Birthplace of American Independence.” Today Ipswich is known for beautiful Crane Beach and has more early 17th century “First Period” colonial homes than any other community in the country.

The “Little Red House” is at the heart of our town, found on the Ipswich South Green, one of several national historic districts in town, the Hall Haskell House operates, in season, as both an art gallery and welcome center. Conveniently located on the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, part of the Essex National Heritage Areas network of Visitor Information Centers, we provide an abundance of maps and brochures. Well curated internet information offers up to date area event listings, interactive maps and an array of indexed resources. It is important to note that the Ipswich Visitor Center is staffed entirely by volunteers, friendly and well informed, easily encouraged to share a story or two, some historical, some hysterical.